Pre-Race / Pre-Participation Evaluation

Pre-Race or Pre-Participation Evaluation (PPE) is a critical component of Sports Medicine that is often overlooked by athletes and trainers alike. This is especially so for the casual or non-competitive athlete. This is despite the multiple warnings on gym walls and equipment that tells people to see a doctor before participating in any sport.

The PPE is designed to identify any medical conditions that might be exacerbated or brought on by sports participation. Athletes can then be given advice on steps they can take to protect themselves and minimize the risk of injury.

The PPE consists of a thorough history and focused physical examination.

The history is of vital importance as 75% of medical problems can be identified via the history. To save time on your PPE, you can follow this link to a history form provided by the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine which you can fill up prior to your visit:
http://www.amssm.org/Content/pdf%20files/PPE2010RevisedForm.pdf

The physical examination focuses on vital signs, vision, heart, lungs, joints, muscles and flexibility. You will be required to do some simple movements such as duck walks and walking on your heels and toes. Make sure you wear loose comfortable sports clothes for the examination.

Few athletes will require further tests unless indicated by the history or physical examination.

At the end of the PPE, you will be given a clearance form that will state your clearance for sports. You might get a restricted clearance or even be referred for further tests if necessary.

About Dr. TanDr. Tan graduated from the National University of Singapore in 2001. His residency was in the two largest public hospitals in Singapore; Tan Tock Seng Hospital and Singapore General Hospital.